NBA – Completely unexpected return to the Lakers this summer?

Par Mathieu Seguin | Rédacteur sport

The puzzle remains incomplete in Los Angeles. Since the arrival of Luka Doncic, the Lakers have been eager to reshape their roster around LeBron James and the Slovenian star. While big-name moves are in the works, secondary decisions may also shape the season ahead—sometimes in unexpected ways.

One name gaining traction within the organization is that of Jaxson Hayes. The big man didn’t leave much of an impression last season, often disappearing from the rotation during critical stretches. Still, with limited cap flexibility this summer, the possibility of his return is quietly gaining momentum, according to a trusted insider.

The Athletic : “The Lakers likely will try to do better here, and Hayes will likely try to find a place where he’s more appreciated, but I’m not sure we should rule out a reunion. Between L.A.’s early Bird rights on Hayes and the limited money on the market for supplemental centers like him, these two may find that continuing their uncomfortable marriage remains better than the alternative.”

Could Hayes return to L.A. after all?

Hayes is reportedly looking to land the Lakers’ mid-level exception, estimated around $5.2 million—a significant sum for a backup big, but a feasible move considering L.A.’s needs. With frontcourt targets like Nic Claxton and John Collins expected to command steeper prices or prove harder to acquire, the front office may opt for pragmatism.

The final decision could depend on how other negotiations unfold. Should the Lakers strike out on premium bigs, Hayes may emerge as a fallback option—far from an ideal solution in the eyes of many fans, but a practical one. He’s an athletic body who knows the system and could offer spot minutes off the bench.

The key question: would Hayes accept a reduced role? Still young, he might be tempted by a team offering more responsibility. But if no such offers materialize, a return to L.A. remains realistic. It would be a default move for the Lakers—less flashy, more functional—in an offseason where every dollar counts.

With Luka Doncic now leading the charge, L.A.’s leadership knows the importance of finding a dependable frontcourt partner. Whether it’s Hayes or someone new, upgrading the 1-5 duo is central to the Lakers’ immediate title aspirations.